This was our second NCLA experience in Hawaii, having sailed on the Pride of Hawaii (now the Jade) back in 2007. Our first cruise was good - this one was great!

We began our journey (a celebration of my parents 50th anniversary) with a five-day beach house rental in Kihei, Maui followed by two nights at the Embassy Suites in Honolulu. The ES location is great - one block off the beach, close to shopping and restaurants - and the hotel itself is clean and comfortable. We will stay there again on our next trip to the islands!

We boarded the ship a little after noon following a short wait and did about the only thing you can do for the first two hours until your room is ready: head to the buffet. The Aloha Buffet was pretty much what I expected - crowded with a good selection, but below average food. It was the last time we dined in the buffet all week. Read more